'The Silver Linings Playbook' is hitting theaters just in time for awards season, but director David O. Russell is already hard at work lining up a cast for his next flick -- an untitled project starring Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, Bradley Cooper, and now, as THR reports, Christian Bale. Bale and Adams previously starred together in Russell's 'The Fighter,' another strong awards contender. Meanwhile, Cooper stars in 'The Silver Linings Playbook.' This will be Renner's first outing with the director, but we can't say we're surprised -- looking at that lineup, he just sort of fits in, doesn't he?

Russell wrote the script with Eric Warren Singer ('The International'); the official synopsis:

The Untitled David O. Russell Project is based on the true story of a notorious financial con artist (Bale) and his mistress/partner in crime (Adams), who were forced to work with an out of control federal agent (Cooper) to turn the tables on other con artists, mobsters, and politicians. At the epicenter of the entire tale, is the passionate and volatile leader of the New Jersey state assembly (Renner) who is also the local hero and mayor of impoverished Camden.

Production on the film begins next February. Perhaps Russell will have it ready in time for next awards season?